VIVAERO

$20m AFRL contract to advance ceramic matrix composites for US Air Force, Space Force

AeroVironment, a leader in defence technology innovation, has been awarded a $20m Ceramics Advanced Materials and Processes (CAMP) contract by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Materials and Manufacturing Directorate to advance next-generation ceramic and ceramic matrix composite materials (CMCs) for extreme aerospace and defence applications supporting the US Air and Space Forces.

Under the 39-month contract, AV’s materials experts will partner with AFRL scientists and engineers at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, to accelerate development, field advanced capabilities faster, and strengthen mission readiness while reducing lifecycle costs. The team will apply advanced additive manufacturing, 3D printing, and sensor integration techniques to create lightweight, thermally resilient structures – such as high-speed aerodynamic vehicles, turbine engines, rocket propulsion systems, transparent armour, thermal-protection tiles, and nozzle extensions – designed to perform in the most extreme environments.

“CAMP represents a vital investment in technologies that will preserve America’s advantage across air and space domains,” said Johnathan Jones, senior vice president of cyber and mission solutions at AV. “By advancing the next generation of high-temperature materials and manufacturing processes, we will deliver capabilities that enhance mission readiness, extend operational endurance, and strengthen the technological superiority of our Air and Space Forces.”

Research conducted under the CAMP programme will advance next-generation ceramics through precursor synthesis and processing, novel fabrication and design methods, microstructural characterisation, and advanced modelling to better predict performance and durability. The effort will span the full lifecycle of material innovation, integrating embedded sensors for real-time health monitoring and developing multifunctional ceramics for aerospace, space, energy, and defence applications – from satellite propulsion and helicopter armour to ultra-efficient energy systems and advanced sensors.

“Collaborations with our customers are at the heart of what we do,” said Dr. John Hogan, vice president of defence and interagency service at AV. “Through the CAMP programme, we’re not just developing better ceramics – we’re creating the materials foundation for the future of flight and space operations. This collaboration ensures our research directly supports mission readiness, durability, and operational effectiveness for the Air and Space Forces.”

www.avinc.com